At the Children’s Institute’s annual Cape & Gown Gala on Nov. 8, the Reiner family gathered to celebrate the charitable work of the late Rob and Michelle Reiner. Jake Reiner, their son, and Romy Reiner, their daughter, delivered heartfelt remarks and presented the inaugural Michele and Rob Reiner Champion for Change Award to actress Jamie Lee Curtis.
Remembering Rob and Michelle Reiner
Jake Reiner opened his remarks by reflecting on his parents’ lifelong commitment to philanthropy. He noted that the past eleven months have been “hard to even stand, let alone speak, in front of an audience,” but emphasized the family’s resolve to honor their parents’ example of love and compassion. “They always led with love and compassion, and we’re constantly fighting for those less fortunate,” he said.
He described the personal challenges of coping with loss, saying, “Right now, I’m just trying to survive the trauma, figure out how to heal, and show up for Children’s Institute tonight.” He credited his parents with instilling in him a sense of purpose, adding, “I have the gift of being in a position to help people, and I can make the world a better place.”
Family Memories and Gratitude
Jake shared vivid memories that illustrate the everyday warmth of his parents. He recalled his mother’s playful habit of squeezing his knee under the table and his father’s humorous comment about being forced to choose between salad and dessert. He also reminisced about the post‑dinner car rides where the Reiners would dissect the day’s annoyances together.
“The tragedy of what happened to our family is so dark that the two people I want right by my side are only with me in my mind and in my soul,” Jake said, emphasizing the lasting impact of their guidance.
Romy Reiner’s Thanks
Romy Reiner expressed gratitude to Jamie Lee Curtis and her husband, Christopher Guest, for their support during the family’s grieving process. “They have shown up for me in ways that not many people have,” she said, adding that she feels “very special to be on the receiving end of their love.” She praised Curtis as “a beautiful soul inside and out” and honored her for accepting the award on behalf of the Reiner legacy.
Award Presentation
The inaugural Michele and Rob Reiner Champion for Change Award was presented to Jamie Lee Curtis in recognition of her longstanding friendship with the Reiners and her commitment to charitable causes. Curtis, who was also honored at the 2026 Emmys with a special “In Memoriam” tribute, accepted the award on behalf of the family.
Looking Forward
Jake Reiner concluded by acknowledging the ongoing grief but also the resolve to continue the work his parents began. “Loss and grief always leave us wanting more,” he said, underscoring the family’s dedication to carrying forward the Reiners’ philanthropic mission.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
